Allan Saint-Maximin told to ‘stop feeling sorry for himself’ after Newcastle United latest – pundit
Frank McAvennie has told Allan Saint-Maximin to stop “feeling sorry for himself” and fight for his place at Newcastle United.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former West Ham striker said Saint-Maximin has the chance to be Eddie Howe’s number one choice.
As quoted by The Athletic (5 February), the 25-year-old revealed that he attracted interest during the January transfer window as a result of his lack of game time.
The winger said he is “proud” to be at Newcastle and will continue to do his best for the team when given the opportunity.
Saint-Maximin has started six games for Eddie Howe’s side, including the 1-1 draw with Bournemouth (11 February) and has scored just one goal this season.
When asked if Saint-Maximin will be able to nail down a starting place, McAvennie told Football Insider: “I think he was the one player that I thought could have done it.
“But, there is no point in feeling sorry for yourself when players come in. He never had any competition. I do not look at it as someone taking your place, I look at it as competition.
“You have got to believe in yourself. He will get chances to be the number one so stop feeling sorry for yourself and look at it as a challenge.
“He is a good player, when he is on form he is a player that Eddie Howe would love to keep. But he has got to feel right. He has to work harder and get his place back.
“If you can’t handle the competition you should not be there. He can be a good player and fight for his place if he stops feeling sorry for himself.“
In other news, according to sources, Newcastle to sell four senior stars as three marquee signings planned.